Know the types of automotive window tints

If you’re thinking about installing window tint on your car, you probably know all the benefits: a cooler interior, protection from dangerous UV rays and glare from the sun, and better privacy and security. But you might not be aware that the options available for car window tint go beyond the degree of darkness you choose or its legality. The type of tinted window film that’s right for your car, however, will depend on your needs and budget.

There are five common types of car window tints available in the market, all of which provide different benefits.

Dyed window tint

Dyed window tint is one of the most commonly used tints in the country. It blocks up to 50% of sunlight coming into your car and absorbs heat into the glass.  Made from a layer of dyed polyester film sandwiched between an adhesive layer and a scratch-resistant hard coat, dyed window tint is non-reflective and doesn’t interfere with radio waves or in-glass antennas. Dyed window tint is the most affordable option, but eventually the sun’s UV rays will break down the dye and will fade, flake and discolor.

Metalized window tint

Metalized window tint involves several layers, including one made from metalized film that reflects heat and up to 40% of sunlight. The metal particles also boost window shatter resistance, keeping you safe from broken glass in the event of an accident. One of the main advantages of metalized window film compared to dyed film is its durability—the metal particles won’t fade over time like dye. But there is a notable disadvantage as well—the metallic content has a tendency to interfere with mobile phone signals, GPS, and radio reception. Metalized tints are also a bit more expensive that dyed ones.

Hybrid window tint

Hybrid window tinting film offers the best of both worlds. It combines a layer of dyed film with a layer of metalized film in between the adhesive and hard coat layers. The result is an affordable window tint option with superior heat and UV blocking qualities, long-lasting durability, and less electronic interference than with other metalized window films. Plus, the film isn’t too dark or too mirror-like, offering a more natural shaded look.

Ceramic tinting tint

Ceramic window film are similar to metalized film, but instead of a layer filled with metal particles, the ceramic film uses nonconductive ceramic particles that won’t interfere with electronic equipment. It also blocks up to 50% of solar heat while allowing maximum visibility, day or night. The main drawback of ceramic window tint is the price tag, but it’s worth it. Compared to other tinting options, the ceramic film boasts the highest resistance to UV rays, glare and fading, and offers superior shatter resistance in the event of a break-in or accident.

Carbon tinting film

Carbon tinting film is typically darker than other window films, and it blocks up to 40% of the sun’s heat through an attractive matte finish that won’t fade over time. Because carbon film doesn’t contain any metal, you won’t have to worry about electronic or radio interference. Carbon window film is widely considered to be the next generation of window film, although for now, it falls on the more expensive end of the window tint price spectrum. However, if installed correctly it’s an investment that will last the lifetime of your car.

No matter which window tint you opt for, always choose a professional installer. A good window tint is only as good if properly installed.

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